The Crew Claims Team of Crawford Marine recently assisted in a sensitive and complex case involving a seafarer who experienced a psychotic episode while on board and required urgent medical care. The individual was safely disembarked and admitted to a local hospital, where they received psychiatric care and observation until deemed stable enough for repatriation.
Given the vessel’s remote location, we proactively contacted the local hospital in advance to secure appropriate medical specialists were available to provide the necessary care upon arrival.
Working on behalf of the P&I Club, we coordinated with local agents and medical providers to help the seafarer receive the appropriate care. Accordingly, we drew on our extensive network of experienced specialists and representatives across the UK and internationally—whether through our Special Liability team, who assist in taking statements, or our surveyors, who provide direct support to crew members and masters.
Given the complexity of the situation, it was arranged for the seafarer’s next of kin to travel to the UK, where they were supported by the local agent and our representative. When the initial facility could not offer long-term care, the seafarer was transferred to a more suitable hospital, with our team maintaining daily communication and providing updates to all necessary parties.
Once discharged, the seafarer and their family member were repatriated home. In this case, additional travel support was not required, but we routinely deploy medically trained personnel in similar situations when needed. After the seafarer’s safe return home, we followed up to confirm their wellbeing and provided a final update to all stakeholders.
Why it matters
Seafaring has frequently been reported as a "risky occupation" in terms of both physical and mental health. According to research by Svetina et al. (Factors Impacting Seafarers’ Mental Health and Career Intentions), seafarers are routinely exposed to stressors such as social isolation, long work hours, and difficult physical conditions—all of which can have long-term impacts on mental wellbeing.
Our UK-based team provides in-person welfare support, with medical professionals available to consult on treatment plans and repatriation. With extensive experience in complex medical cases, we provide compassionate care, accurate billing, and timely communication, supporting both seafarers and clients every step of the way.
In recognition of these challenges, the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) has introduced initiatives such as the Wellbeing at Sea Tool (launched in July 2022), alongside practical guides including Wellbeing at Sea: A Guide for Organisations and A Pocket Guide for Seafarers. These resources aim to give both individuals and organisations tools to better understand and monitor mental health at sea.
In addition, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) provides comprehensive guidance on crew welfare management and the handling of mental health challenges, with a range of resources available through its official website.
However, challenges in data collection persist. As noted in the Ipsos DfT Suicide and Seafarers report, "It is not currently possible to establish a global picture of the situation," due to inconsistent reporting rules across flag states. While UK law requires reporting of deaths on UK-flagged vessels and of UK citizens abroad, international reporting standards remain fragmented.
Cases like this one serve as a reminder of the vital need for structured, compassionate, and coordinated mental health support for seafarers. We remain committed to improving outcomes for crew members by being present, prepared, and proactive—wherever in the world they may need us.
For more information, please contact Charlotte Waller, crew claims executive, on charlotte.waller@crawco.co.uk.
